ATEX Containers: Everything You Need to Know

An in-depth look at explosion-proof containers and SO.GE.SE. products in our catalog

In the industrial world, the safe management of materials and equipment is a crucial issue. Whether it’s for temporary storage, transport, or mobile installations, containers represent a flexible and functional solution, widely used in sectors such as construction, oil & gas, chemicals, and logistics. Industrial containers are often adapted to meet specific regulatory or technical requirements, including thermal insulation, ventilation, refrigeration, and protection against weather conditions.

However, when operating in hazardous environments such as refineries, chemical plants, or areas with potentially flammable atmospheres, it is essential to adopt solutions that comply with strict safety standards. This is where ATEX containers come into play, designed to ensure maximum safety even under extreme operating conditions.

With this article, we at SO.GE.SE. provide an in-depth look at this type of container and our key role in delivering reliable, high-quality products.

What does ATEX mean?

The term ATEX comes from the French ATmosphères EXplosibles and is used to indicate the set of European directives that regulate equipment and systems intended for use in explosive atmospheres. In particular, the reference regulations are:

• Direttiva ATEX 2014/34/UE: aimed at equipment manufacturers, it sets requirements for the design and certification of products used in hazardous zones.
• Direttiva ATEX 99/92/CE: aimed at employers, it concerns the protection of workers exposed to explosive atmospheres.

An environment may be classified as “explosive risk” when it contains a flammable mixture of gases, vapors, or dust in concentrations capable of causing a deflagration in the presence of an ignition source (such as a spark or a hot surface). ATEX zones are classified based on the frequency and duration of explosive atmospheres (Zone 0, 1, 2 for gases; Zone 20, 21, 22 for dust).

What are ATEX containers and what are their main features?

ATEX containers are modular units specifically designed for use in hazardous areas as defined by ATEX directives. These containers can serve a variety of functions: temporary warehouses, control cabins, shelters for electrical panels, mobile laboratories, pumping stations, or refrigerated units.

The key features of an ATEX container include:

• ATEX-certified components: such as fans, lights, switches, sockets, and electrical panels that do not create ignition sources.
• ATEX-certified ventilation and refrigeration systems: to prevent overheating and ensure proper air circulation even in closed environments.
• Thermal insulation and special sealing: to maintain controlled conditions and prevent the entry of hazardous dust or vapors.
• Grounding systems and electrostatic discharge protection: essential to avoid the buildup of potentially explosive charges.

All components are selected and integrated according to the ATEX zones specified by the customer (e.g. Zone 1, Zone 2, etc.), and each container must be accompanied by certifications and technical documentation in full compliance.

Main applications of ATEX explosion-proof containers

ATEX containers are used across a wide range of high-risk sectors, such as:

• Petrochemical plants and refineries

• Chemical and pharmaceutical industry

• Natural gas and LNG sector

• Industrial waste treatment facilities

• Mining and quarry operations

• Offshore mobile laboratories

• Military installations and temporary explosive-risk areas

Advantages of ATEX containers

The adoption of an ATEX explosion-proof container offers numerous advantages, especially in contexts where safety is a non-negotiable requirement.

These structures provide maximum protection for operators and facilities, significantly reducing the risk of explosions thanks to compliance with European standards. They also offer a high degree of customization, allowing each unit to be tailored to the specific needs of plants, production processes, or internal regulations.

Another strength lies in their logistical flexibility: containers can be transported, installed, and reconverted quickly, even in remote or temporary areas. Added to this is a significant reduction in construction costs and installation times compared to traditional building solutions.

Finally, ATEX containers can be easily integrated with refrigeration and technological systems, making them ideal for complex applications such as mobile laboratories, IT shelters, or temperature-controlled storage.

The key role of SO.GE.SE. in the sector

In conclusion, ATEX explosion-proof containers are the ideal solution for operating safely in classified hazardous areas, without sacrificing the flexibility and functionality of modular units. To choose the container best suited to your needs, it is essential to rely on an experienced partner who is fully up to date with current regulations.

At SO.GE.SE., in addition to the sale and rental of maritime and refrigerated containers, we design and manufacture ATEX refrigerated containers equipped with electrical systems and cooling units fully compliant with ATEX standards, for applications in the pharmaceutical, chemical, energy, and logistics sectors. Our solutions include certified isoclimatic cold rooms, REI 120 fire-resistant panels, remote monitoring systems for temperature and humidity, and equipment designed to operate safely even in extreme environmental conditions.

Over the years, we have faced ambitious technical challenges, developing custom ATEX containers for the storage of high-risk materials such as lithium batteries, and building non-standard units compatible with complex logistical requirements.

Among the most significant projects carried out by SO.GE.SE. in the Shelter & Housing Units division is the facility completed in 2020 in Rottofreno (PC, Italy). This was one of the most complex ATEX orders managed to date, where we were called upon to design high-performance modular solutions within customized ISO containers. The project included special configurations in terms of dimensions, fire-resistant panels, and advanced systems for remote monitoring of environmental conditions. A result that highlights our ability to meet specific, highly challenging requirements while ensuring excellent safety and quality standards.

Every project is managed by our technical team with meticulous attention to detail, documentation compliance, and support in every phase: from design to commissioning. Choosing a SO.GE.SE. ATEX container means adopting a reliable, ready-to-use solution fully compliant with ATEX regulations

Contact us today for a tailored consultation or a dedicated quote: we are ready to guide you toward the safest and most efficient solution for your industry.